A Quiet Pride Month Surprise: Al Roker’s Heartfelt Documentary Gift to Rachel Maddow and MSNBC’s LGBTQ Staff

In the bustling halls of MSNBC, where voices of truth and diversity often rise loudly, Pride Month 2025 arrived with a notably softer tone for one of its most iconic figures — Rachel Maddow. The acclaimed host, celebrated for her sharp analysis and steadfast commitment to journalistic integrity, found herself reflecting on a sense of distance. Unlike previous years, the familiar chorus of Pride Month well-wishes from colleagues was missing. With Maddow’s evolving career path and reduced daily presence at the network, she quietly wondered if her influence and connection had diminished.

Little did Maddow know that a profoundly thoughtful and carefully crafted surprise was already in motion — a gift that would speak volumes far beyond words or routine celebrations. This was a gesture led by none other than Al Roker, NBC’s beloved weatherman and a figure whose warmth and generosity extend far beyond his on-screen role.

More Than a Gift: A Labor of Love

This was not a simple card or fleeting tribute. It was Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn, a documentary film produced by Roker’s company, Al Roker Entertainment, Inc., in partnership with Seven Knots Film & Media and Xpedition. The film stands as a heartfelt tribute to the resilience, courage, and authenticity of MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff — including Maddow herself — and others who have faced adversity to live openly and proudly.

Known widely as a trusted television personality, Roker has quietly built a reputation as a passionate storyteller and advocate behind the scenes. Creating Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn was no small feat. It demanded financial commitment, long nights, and countless hours of creative oversight. From script revisions to editing sessions, Roker was intimately involved, ensuring that the documentary faithfully captured the struggles and triumphs of its subjects — individuals who dared to live their truths amid societal pressures.

The Story at the Heart of the Film

The documentary centers on Malcolm Kenyatta, a trailblazing Pennsylvania state representative whose identity as a Black, gay man and politician embodies themes of perseverance and authenticity. Roker saw in Kenyatta’s story a mirror for the experiences of MSNBC’s LGBTQ community — a group of people who, like Kenyatta, have faced professional and personal challenges but continue to carve out spaces where their voices are heard.

Through a masterful blend of interviews, archival footage, and personal reflections, the film weaves a narrative that honors not only Kenyatta’s journey but the broader fight for LGBTQ equality. It is a tapestry of courage, reminding viewers of the value inherent in embracing one’s true self unapologetically.

A Surprise Screening for Pride Month

As Pride Month unfolded, Maddow’s initial feelings of being overlooked were completely understandable. Her regular presence on MSNBC had waned as she shifted focus toward podcasting and other projects. Yet, the surprise gift from Roker was designed to remind her — and the entire LGBTQ staff — that their contributions and identities are deeply seen, appreciated, and celebrated.

A special screening was held at MSNBC’s headquarters at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Staff members gathered unaware of the emotional weight of what they were about to witness.

As the lights dimmed and Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn began, the room was captivated. The film’s powerful narrative unfolded, showcasing Kenyatta’s political and personal journey alongside stories of others who have fought for acceptance and visibility in a world that often demands conformity.

For Maddow, the experience was deeply personal. As one of the most prominent openly lesbian voices in media, seeing the documentary’s themes reflected her own struggles was both humbling and affirming. The film’s central message — that every person’s truth is worth fighting for — resonated powerfully with the audience.

Before the screening, Roker addressed the crowd with heartfelt simplicity: “This is for all of you who show up every day as your true selves. Your courage inspires us all.” His words drew a standing ovation, and Maddow later described the gesture as “one of the most meaningful gifts” she has ever received.

Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Meaningful Documentary

The production of Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn showcased Roker’s dedication to authenticity and excellence. Collaborating with Seven Knots Film & Media, a Philadelphia-based production company, and Xpedition, the film team spent months conducting research, interviews, and capturing footage that reflected the multifaceted experiences of the LGBTQ community.

Roker’s involvement went far beyond financial backing. He was a hands-on producer, participating in late-night calls with directors, providing feedback on edits, and insisting on storytelling that honored the truth and depth of the subjects’ lives.

The documentary’s title is itself a powerful call to action: “Do Not Wait Your Turn.” It challenges viewers to live boldly and authentically, refusing to wait for permission to claim their place in the world. For MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff, many of whom have faced scrutiny and bias, the message resonated deeply — a reminder that their presence matters and deserves celebration.

A Legacy of Thoughtfulness and Allyship

Al Roker’s reputation within NBC as the “most thoughtful one” is well deserved. Throughout his career, he has quietly supported colleagues through gestures both grand and small — from personal milestones to moments of hardship.

Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn is perhaps his most ambitious act of kindness, combining emotional depth with creative vision. The film stands as a lasting gift — not only for MSNBC staff but for audiences everywhere who will engage with the documentary through theaters, festivals, and streaming platforms.

For Maddow and her colleagues, the film was a unifying moment during Pride Month, reinforcing that their identities and work are integral to the network’s fabric. It reminded everyone that, even in the fast-paced media industry, there is room for genuine connection and celebration.

A Continuing Call to Action

As the screening ended, the energy in the room was palpable. Staff members embraced, shared stories, and expressed gratitude for Roker’s heartfelt gift. The documentary’s impact extended beyond the event, sparking important conversations about representation, resilience, and allyship.

Roker himself described the film as “just the beginning” in a follow-up interview. “We need to keep telling these stories and lifting up voices that deserve to be heard,” he said.

Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn is more than a film. It is a celebration of identity, a tribute to courage, and a powerful reminder that every story matters.

For Rachel Maddow and MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff, it was a Pride Month gift that will resonate in their hearts for years. For Al Roker, it reaffirmed his belief that storytelling — infused with empathy and authenticity — can change the world, one frame at a time.